There were many people opposed to Cleisthenes' changes, especially the aristocrats, so democracy had a very hostile environment to grow and evolve in. Historians say that Cleisthenes's government took at least two generations to become fully developed.

Direct participation was the key to Athenian democracy. In the Assembly, every male citizen was not only entitled to attend as often as he pleased but also had the right to debate, offer amendments and vote on proposals. Every man had a say in whether to declare war or stay in peace. Basically any thing that required a government decision, all male citizens were allowed to participate in.